Manufactured by the German company Franke & Heidecke, the Heidoscop is a stereo twin-lens reflex camera produced between 1925 and 1940. It was introduced as an advanced model equipped with a Carl Zeiss Jena Tessar 75mm f4.5 lens. It can be considered an ancestor of the Rolleiflex.
Between around 1914 and 1926, stereo photography enjoyed worldwide popularity. It's hard to imagine today that a camera manufacturer could survive by offering only a single stereo camera model.
The Heidoscop used 6x13cm dry plates. Its cartridge system could hold twelve plates and allowed quick and satisfying operation. At the time, film backs were also available to enable the use of roll film. The shutter was a proprietary air-pump type mechanism.
Based on the Tessar lens serial number and other features, this particular example was likely manufactured after 1929. It shows traits of the later version, such as the absence of the F\&H logo on the hood, top-mounted shutter cocking and aperture control dials, and a hinged front lens cap.
A close examination reveals notable similarities to the original Rolleiflex, such as the f4.5 Tessar and familiar focusing hood. While shooting is difficult today without a roll film holder, the build quality and mechanical charm make this camera a joy to observe and operate—an item rich in character and appeal.
Coming with original case.
Considering that nearly 90 years have passed since its manufacture, this camera is in remarkably well-preserved condition. The leather covering remains intact, and both the nickel plating and black paint finish are in excellent shape. While heavily worn Heidoscopes are occasionally seen, this one stands out as a rare find in such fine condition.
In June 2025, the shutter was serviced, and both the lenses and viewfinder were disassembled and cleaned, with focusing adjusted by a professional technician. As the shutter is air pump–driven, please wait about two seconds after charging before releasing it when using slow speeds.
The taking lens shows slight yellowing, but no visible cleaning marks. A true classic and the origin of the Rolleiflex—perfect for any collection.
